While touring GrainCorp’s facilities at the Port of Brisbane last week, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Treasurer Curtis Pitt last week released new data showing the value of Queensland exports increased by 7.9 per cent in 2016, to over $52.7 billion.
Port of Brisbane CEO Roy Cummins and GrainCorp Terminal Manager Josh Connell gave the Premier a guided tour of GrainCorp’s loading and storage facilities, home to millions of tonnes of cotton, grain, chickpeas and other agricultural commodities that are exported from Queensland to the world.
Port of Brisbane CEO Roy Cummins said it had been a great pleasure to host the state’s Premier and Treasurer.
“Queensland has a strong economic story to tell, and the Port of Brisbane, along with our tenants like GrainCorp, is a big part of that story.
“More than 50 per cent of Queensland’s agricultural exports are handled through the Port of Brisbane. We have seen very strong growth in recent times, particularly in agricultural exports like cotton and chickpeas.
“We believe that growth will be sustained into the future, thanks to the great product produced by Queensland, and the growing relationship between Queensland and the Asian markets.
“That’s why we have also reserved purpose-built grain pad expansion areas, around five hectares in size, to cater for that forecast growth in agriculture exports.
“At the port, we are determined to continue to work closely with producers, tenants, and the government to grow these exports and deliver more prosperity for Queensland.”
According to GrainCorp terminal manager Josh Connell, it was fantastic to see agriculture continue to strengthen in its position and ability to contribute to the economic growth of Queensland.
“With good volumes received during the most recent harvest and this year’s cotton crop looking good, industry and the associated supply chains are well positioned to continue to benefit from these increased levels of production.
“GrainCorp is honoured to be able to stand here and celebrate what has been a great 12 months, with a positive view to the future and the successes that come with it.”
